Emmanuel Petit believes Aurelien Tchouameni is the ideal candidate to replace Casemiro at Manchester United. The former France international has weighed in on the ongoing speculation surrounding the Real Madrid midfielder, who has been linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer.
Tchouameni's Potential Move
Tchouameni, 26, essentially succeeded the Brazilian at Madrid four years ago, arriving from AS Monaco just months before Casemiro departed for Old Trafford. He could now replicate that move by following suit. Following a fine from Madrid for what Federico Valverde described as a 'senseless fight' during training, the French international potentially faces an uncertain summer ahead. United's interest in Tchouameni stretches back to his Monaco days. With a midfield overhaul on the cards this summer, a switch to Manchester could finally come to fruition.
Eduardo Camavinga is another Madrid star they are reportedly pursuing. Petit, however, reckons Tchouameni would prove a more appropriate replacement for Casemiro.
Petit's Verdict
Speaking to BOYLE Sports, Petit said: 'Eduardo Camavinga can play the same position as Casemiro, but he doesn't have the same qualities. Camavinga is not in the first XI anymore at Real Madrid, and I think he's about to leave the club this summer. But, if Manchester United wants him to replace Casemiro, it should be with Aurelien Tchouameni. Tchouameni would suit this position better than Camavinga; I think he'd be a great fit there.'
Petit goes even further, declaring Tchouameni the ideal candidate to succeed Casemiro, having also weighed up Carlos Baleba, though notably omitting any mention of Kobbie Mainoo. He said: 'I can see some other players too, like Carlos Baleba, from Brighton and Hove Albion. I think he is strong, and I think he can improve a lot. He's got interesting qualities, but for me, Tchouameni is the best fit.'
Tchouameni's Apology
Yet it remains unclear whether the France international will be obtainable this summer. Following the recent disciplinary measures taken against him, Tchouameni issued an apology for his conduct on social media. He said: 'What happened this week in training is unacceptable – I say this while thinking about the example we are expected to set for young people, whether in football or at school. No matter who is right or wrong, we should always look for the calmest solution to resolve a conflict. Above all, I am sorry for the image we projected of the club. I know the fans, the staff, my teammates, the management, everyone is deeply disappointed by the way this season has unfolded, but frustration cannot excuse everything. These incidents, even if they can happen in any dressing room, are not worthy of Real Madrid, especially since Real Madrid is the most talked-about club in the world. The internet loves to invent the wildest stories for the buzz, so don't believe everything that's being said or the false narrative. Anyway, now is no longer the time to figure out who did what, who said what, or who was right or wrong. I acknowledge the club's sanction, and I accept it. We remain family, with disagreements at times, but we must always put our objectives above everything else. I apologised to the group, and I also want to extend my apologies to all Madridistas.'
The coming weeks will reveal whether Manchester United make a formal approach for Tchouameni, as they look to strengthen their midfield options ahead of the new season.
